Page 21 - Inspire Health January/February 2017
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YOUR KIDS, THEIR TEETHBy Michele Robert Poche mighty kids •
LoveTEACH YOUR KIDS
ABOUT LIFELONG
VDENTAL CARE
program. Feeling brave? Let her floss your
teeth first. And smile the entire time. She’s
watching you for cues.
VISIT THE DENTIST. The American
Dental Association recommends scheduling
a first visit within six months of the first
tooth’s eruption. The earlier she gets
B PBRUSH AT LEAST TWICE DAILY. In accustomed to this routine, the more likely
the beginning, you’ll be doing all the work. As it will become a lifelong habit.
he transitions to school age, let him do the
brushing as you coach him. Remind him not to PROTECT THE TEETH. If your child
swallow the toothpaste and that only a pea- is going to participate in contact sports or
sized amount is needed. anything that puts his teeth at risk, custom-
fitted mouth guards should be worn to
A EAVOID DAMAGING FOODS. Yes, we avoid injuries to the teeth, lips, face and jaw.
all know about sugar (candy, other sweets)
but what about acid (citrus, ALL soda) or EXPOSE HIM TO FLUORIDE.
stickiness (dried fruit) or even breakage (ice)? Whether in toothpaste, mouthwash or
water intake, fluoride has been scientifically
FFLOSS. Once she has teeth touching within proven to prevent tooth decay by at least
her mouth, it’s time to floss. If she’s antsy, try 25 percent. The CDC named it one of the
it while she’s distracted by a favorite television 10 great public health achievements of the
20th century.
Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation
4473 Hanoverville Rd., Bethlehem, PA 18020 • 484.893.5000 William J. Cherry, D.M.D.
4350 Independence Dr., Schnecksville, PA 18078 • 610.769.5100
CherryOrtho.com
